#Gingerbread-themed summer

[noisycowboyglitter]

"Make This Christmas in July Special with Gingerbread Delights"

"Gingerbread Christmas in July" brings a whimsical twist to summer by infusing the warm-weather months with the cozy charm of winter holidays. This concept playfully merges the spicy sweetness of gingerbread with the sunny vibes of midsummer celebrations.

Buy now:19.95$

Imagine pool parties featuring gingerbread-flavored cocktails or ice cream, and barbecues serving gingerbread-crusted grilled treats. Bakers might create summer-themed gingerbread houses adorned with tiny sunbathers and palm trees instead of snowmen and fir trees.

Decorations could include gingerbread-scented candles in beach-inspired holders, or strings of lights shaped like classic gingerbread men wearing sunglasses and flip-flops. Crafters might design "sand castles" made from gingerbread dough, complete with seashell decorations.

This theme offers a refreshing change for those experiencing holiday fatigue in December, allowing them to celebrate Christmas spirit without the pressure of the actual holiday season. It's an opportunity for creative marketing, unique product launches, and themed events that stand out in the summer calendar.

Buy now

"Gingerbread Christmas in July" appeals to those who love the holidays year-round, as well as anyone looking for a novel way to beat the summer heat with a dash of winter whimsy. It's a concept that invites creativity, nostalgia, and a touch of humor to the dog days of summer.

"Funny Beach Summer in July" evokes images of lighthearted seaside antics and comical vacation mishaps during the peak of summer. Picture sunbathers with ridiculous tan lines, beachgoers struggling to apply sunscreen to hard-to-reach spots, and sandcastles that hilariously collapse just as they're finished.

Imagine beach volleyball games where players comically dive for the ball, only to face-plant in the sand. Visualize the chaos of families trying to set up complicated beach umbrellas in gusty winds or the sight of seagulls boldly stealing snacks from unsuspecting tourists.

This concept might include humorous t-shirts with beach puns, inflatable pool toys in absurd shapes, or beach games that inevitably lead to laughter. It's about embracing the joy of summer, complete with melting ice cream cones, awkward tan lines, and the inevitable sand that finds its way into everything.

Buy now

Celebrate your love this Christmas with the perfect gift for two. Whether you're looking for something romantic, adventurous, or simply cozy, there's a perfect present out there for every couple.

Experience Gifts: Create lasting memories with shared adventures. Think weekend getaways, spa days, or concert tickets. For thrill-seekers, outdoor gear or experiences are perfect.

Cozy Home Essentials: Transform your space into a love nest. Indulge in plush blankets, scented candles, and cozy loungewear. Board games or puzzles are great for quality time.

Culinary Delights: Share the joy of cooking and dining. Explore gourmet food baskets, wine subscriptions, or cooking classes. For coffee lovers, a stylish coffee maker and assorted beans are a perfect choice.

Buy now

Personalized Keepsakes: Express your love with custom gifts. Create personalized artwork, engraved jewelry, or a photo album. For a unique touch, consider monogrammed mugs or blankets.

Tech and Gadgets: Elevate your shared experiences with tech gifts. Explore wireless headphones, smart home devices, or a portable projector for movie nights.

Remember, the best gift reflects your partner's interests and personality. Choose something that shows your love and appreciation. Merry Christmas!

[herinsectreflection]

I Guess Her Generation Isn't Cool With Witchcraft (Gingerbread)

On the 24th May 1988 the Conservative government of Great Britain, led by Margaret Thatcher, passed a law known officially as the United Kingdom Local Government Act 1988. This Act had many effects, but by far its most famous and influential section was the part that has come to be known as Section 28. Section 28 outlawed any school or local authority in the United Kingdom from “promoting homosexuality”, “publishing any material with the intention of promoting homosexuality”, or “promoting the teaching of the acceptability of homosexuality as a pretended family relationship”. Given that the act (intentionally) made no effort to define “promotion”, the effect was clear and predesigned: from 1988 until its full repeal in 2003, queerness was illegal in British schools.

This justification for this discrimination was the same one that is always trotted out - the protection of children from predatory influences. Homophobic attitudes were rising in the wake of the HIV/AIDS epidemic, whipped up by an entrenched conservative government and a vulturine news industry. The likes of The Sun, Daily Mail, and The Telegraph ran regular scare pieces about the homosexual lifestyle and its apparent attempts to indoctrinate children. The most benign depictions of queer acceptance were accused of being pornographic, of being propagandic, of “glorifying homosexual intercourse”. One book - Jenny Lives With Eric And Martin - was described by The Sun as “vile” and Today as “gay porn”[1], and was deemed controversial enough to kickstart the movement that resulted in Section 28. It depicts a girl with a gay father, engaging in such salacious events as going to the laundrette, and planning a birthday party.

The accusations leveled at these books were lies, and easily revealed as lies to anyone concerned enough to engage in actual research, but their purpose was not to be true. Their purpose was to combine latent homophobia in the general population with the instinctive human desire to protect the young. Together, these elements create a powerful boogeyman. This boogeyman was then paraded out during the general election of 1987, in which the Labour Party was attacked for their (claimed) promotion of such offensive materials. This was an imagined threat cooked up by bigots and seized upon by political actors most interested in protecting their capital. It worked. The Conservatives won the election with 42% of the vote, and remained in power until 1997. 

It is into this cultural landscape that Buffy airs the eleventh episode of Season Three, Gingerbread. The plot revolves around the deaths of two young children, and how those deaths spark a wave of anti-witch paranoia among the townsfolk of Sunnydale; a paranoia that escalates into censorship, persecution, and eventually a literal witch-burning. The dead children are eventually revealed to be an evil demon exerting some kind of mind control on the population, which is standard practice for Buffy hijinks. The important aspects are the real-world parallels that this storyline is intending to highlight.

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[sc0tters]

Push It | Mikko Rantanen

summary: when Mikko sees you getting stressed late one night, he feels obligated to step in to help.

kinkmas: day nine (squirting)

warnings: sexual themes, p in v, oral (fem receiving!), thigh riding, swearing.

word count: 3.39k

authors note: this is my second time writing for Mikko and I have to say that I am kind of in love with this one? it also took me way longer to write it than I would actually like to admit either but we now only have three days left in kinkmas! if you want to read more from kinkmas you can find the playlist here!

Mikko swore you were doing this to punish him.

What for? Now Mikko didn't have the answer to that one just yet. But with Christmas a mere few days away and his family arriving on Sunday, you were in full swing wrapping presents. You had met his family for the first time in the summer when Mikko convinced you to come home with him. So it was suffice to say that you were beyond stressed out by the fact you were hosting his family for Christmas. His parents adored how happy you made their son but that didn’t bring you any comfort as you stayed up well beyond an appropriate time.

It frustrated Mikko as he woke up to an empty bed when his alarm clock flashed 3:00AM. With him being home for a couple of days before another road trip with the team all Mikko wanted was to spend time with you, something that became a challenge as you stressed about preparing the house for his family's arrival. Begrudgingly he pushed the comforter off of his chest as he got up sliding his slippers on in an attempt to bring himself some warmth in the battle of combatting the Colorado winter.

The lights in the dining room illuminated Mikko’s path down the staircase as he could hear you mumbling incoherent things to yourself in frustration. His footsteps were quiet as he stood at the door to see what looked like Christmas had thrown up over the table. Wrapping paper and ribbons covered as much of the wood as the eye could see “muru?” Mikko cleared his throat as he called out stood at the opposite end of the table.

Scents of the gingerbread house you made during the afternoon traveled around the bottom floor of the house “hey.” You forced a smile onto your lips as you pressed your hands onto the table. Concern was evident on his face as he walked over to you “come to bed.” Mikko’s voice was soft as he crouched down placing his hands on your knees.

You shook your head turning to look back to focus on the final presents in front of you “not yet love.” You mumbled avoiding his eye as you could feel his burning gaze.

Mikko ran his fingers over your bare thighs trying to capture your attention “I can’t sleep.” You explained chewing at the inside of your cheek “have a way I could help you.” He smirked pressing a kiss against your shoulder making you squirm.

He smiled hearing you whimper as you stopped wrapping the present as though you were contemplating hearing him out “what is it?” You sighed raking your fingers through your hair as you turned to him “if I make you come before finish wrapping then you come to bed.” The offer made you squirm as your cheeks turned red.

You ran your tongue over your teeth “and if I finish before?” You tried to puff your chest out in an attempt to keep your nerves calm “then I’ll wear that sweater of yours for the party.” Mikko hated the sweater you had gotten him for the team end of year holiday party, so either way you were truly winning.

Mere seconds passed as you thought about what you would do as you eventually nodded “deal.” You shifted to the back of your chair “need you to get up so I can get you out of these.” His voice was coarse as he tapped your thighs when he repositioned himself to sit under the table.

He watched you listen to his instructions leaning towards the table as your ass was in the air “you knew you were gonna do this didn’t you?” Mikko smirked seeing your pink panties that had a wet patch that formed on the center “won’t make you wait Rakas.” He cooed bringing your panties down to your ankles.

You sat back down shifting your legs so that your cunt was in line with his face “such a pretty little pussy.” Mikko mumbled pulling you closer to him as you sat on the edge of your seat.

The hockey player could hear you weren’t moving anything “you want to start before you lose baby.” Mikko clicked his tongue making you whimper as he pressed his lips against the inside of your thighs “right Mik.” Your voice was shaky as you nodded beginning to continue wrapping those presents.

His lips were soft against your skin as they left a trail of sloppy kissed until he teased your folds “can’t believe you’ve stayed up all night.” Mikko urged not giving you the chance to respond as he pressed his tongue flat against your slit making you groan.

It made your thighs tense “god Mikko.” You blew your lips into a raspberry as your hands clenched around the scissors “such a sweet cunt.” He praised you as he locked his arms around your thighs bringing you even closer to him.

You used all of your strength to focus on what was in front of you. Mikko latched his lips around your clit letting his tongue swirl around your sensitive nub “getting so needy already.” He mumbled against your cunt sending shivers up your spine making your hands shake.

Mikko had always been skilled with his tongue and tonight was truly no different. Treating you like you were his last meal. The starved man beneath you let his tongue lay flat in your cunt stretching as far as he could possibly go. You did you best to not think about the sheer levels of pleasure you felt as you tied a bow in the ribbon that wrapped around the box.

One down, three to go.

Your cunt tasted sweet on his tongue as it almost egged him on “r-right there!” You stammered feeling his nose hit your clit “the way you’re acting has me thinking you didn’t want this.” Mikko pulled his lips away from you as he moved his hand to tease your clit staring up at you “you aren’t even trying.” He clicked his tongue as he shook his head.

You whimpered in response gripping at the packaging of the box “I am!” You nodded figuring that if you said it with enough conviction you could actually believe it.

He watched you try to continue and part of him contemplated putting the bet off wanting please you properly but as your legs began to shake. The ideas of going east on you left Mikko’s mind “just let yourself go y/n.” Mikko didn’t often call you by your name as he usually settled for a nickname in Finnish since you loved his mother tongue.

The desire to let yourself come built in your belly as your eyes began to flutter “not yet.” Your jaw froze as you tried to put it off. But as Mikko swiped his tongue over your clit he slotted his fingers into your cunt making sure that you didnt have the chance to not come “fuck Mikko!” You groaned feeling his smirk press against your thighs letting your hands pull at his curls.

His free hand was soft against your stomach as he felt you grip his fingers “don’t stop.” You moaned driving your hips against his face as you came letting the pleasure wash over you. Mikko smirked as he began to slow his movements feeling your cunt loosen around his fingers.

Your body shook as his lips left you with a pop. Mikko pushed your chair back as he smiled getting up from the ground “looks like you lost muru.” He clicked his tongue seeing the second present only being tapped up.

It was clear you were trying to still recover as you were too dazed to even care about what he had to say “no.” You whimpered pushing your back against the chair as you tried to hold your ground “why don’t I help you then?” Mikko proposed placing his hand on your shoulder as he wasn’t prepared to leave you down here just yet.

Mikko loved how you were right after an orgasm. The way your lips were plump because you had bitten them trying to suppress your moans. Your eyes were always heavy as he always made sure to put you through the wringer. Usually that was enough for him to do once and then he’d feel content, but tonight Mikko wanted to push you that little bit further as sleep was now nothing more than a distance thought in his mind.

His hand was gentle as he helped you up, giving him just enough space to slip into the seat beneath you. Your head fell against his shoulder as you straddled his leg “let’s do it together muru.” Mikko cooed making you melt against his touch as you nodded.

But as you leaned forward his thigh tensed beneath you resulting in you letting out a moan “fuck!” Your cunt was already wet from your first orgasm of the night quickly coating the skin of his thigh.

Mikko smirked feeling his cock grow hard against his boxers “you giving up on the gifts?” The hockey player teased watching you begin to ride his thigh “nope.” You shook your head letting your tongue dart out of your mouth as you began to focus on the gift in front of you.

This quickly turned into round two of your little bet as Mikko bit his lip writing on the little piece of card as he made little effort to trying to help you. Signing it from the both of you before he moved to the next one. But during the time he did that Mikko didn’t lose sight on the fact that you were enjoying spreading your juices over his thigh “you should see how pretty you look.” Mikko mumbled as he pressed a kiss to your shoulder.

You were in one of his old camp shirts that looked like it was a dress over you “didn’t tell you to slow down.” He nipped at your ear lobe making you shiver.

Mikko watched how your body responded to his cold fingertips grazed over your skin up your shirt “meanie.” You huffed making him laugh as he ghosted over your nipples “promise I’ll make it all worth it soon.” Mikko offered flexing his thigh to make your clit hit it at a different angle.

He couldn’t help but smirk as you gave up on wrapping for a second time as you had finished the second present and rather than moving onto the next one you pushed them all away to the front of you. Finally revealing a clear space on the table “please Mik.” You begged as you felt his fingers roll your nipples between them.

The hockey player groaned as he wished he could see the reactions you had as all he wanted was to finally watch you come. But as Mikko felt his cock hate his boxers for keeping his boner pressed against his skin “gave you your first orgasm princess.” He clicked his tongue squeezing his hands around your breasts “this one is all on you.” His words made you whine as if you had a choice in how the rest of the events tonight were going to go.

This was one of the moments that you were glad you were in a house as it meant you didn’t have to worry about any neighbours hearing the devious acts that you and Mikko were getting up to tonight “want your cock.” You blurted out making the boy wish that he was dreaming as he found himself full of desire to lift you off of his cock and place you on his dick instead.

You fell back against him as you pressed your body against his “be a good girl and maybe I’ll give it to you.” Mikko had to silently praise the gods for making him come downstairs when he woke up “think you could do that f’me?” He asked watching your eyes lock with his.

If the walls could talk they would have brought up how embarrassed they were being forced to see you in your fucked out state when you hadn’t even seen his cock tonight “anything f’you.” You nodded bringing your hands up to cup his as you no longer needed the guidance to drive your clit against his thigh.

It was clear you both oozed desperation as Mikko wanted to bring you to your second orgasm of the night whilst you were trying to do everything to snap the coil your stomach had built up “go make a mess on my thigh baby.” Mikko’s soft voice was a total contrast to how you felt as your body began to shake as you pushed against him rutting your hips against his skin as you felt your eyes begin to struggle to stay open.

The sounds of your moans echoed through the house like a ghost dancing as you whimpered “I’m gonna- fuck!” You cried shaking your head as you gave up not being able to compose yourself anymore as you felt yourself come for the second time tonight. Mikko kissed your cheek as he mumbled soft words of affirmation in Finnish trying to hold himself quiet as he felt his thigh grow wet.

He was sweet in the way that he kissed your shoulder bringing you back to reality as Mikko brushed his fingers through your hair "think you can give me one more muru?" His voice was hushed as he pinched your nipples teasing the peaks as it caused you to jump.

You didn't have the energy to argue as you felt his cock press against your back making you moan as your mouth began to water "gonna let me fuck you with my cock?" He added drawing another moan from your lips as you squirmed.

A needy nod came from you as your head bobbed "sit up on the table then." He ordered as he pushed the chair back giving you space to quickly follow his instructions. It made him smile as watched you spread your legs "give me a kiss pretty girl." Mikko slotted into the space you created where he cupped your cheeks tilting your jaw upwards so that he could kiss you.

In the moment of feeling his tongue slide over your lip you took the moment to run your hands down his bare chest in an effort to bring him some comfort as your fingers danced over the waistband of his boxers. The cold feeling of your fingers made the hockey player jump "naughty, naughty girl." Mikko shook his head as he mirrored your actions with the shirt you were wearing "think it's about time we get you out of this." He mumbled tugging at your shirt as you raised your arms up.

It felt like the world stopped spinning for Mikko in that moment as he watched your naked body sat on the table like it was meant to be served to him on a platter "fuck this will never get old." He confessed making your cheeks turn red as you smiled.

Mikko could see how you stared at the bulge of his cock that could could see on his red boxers "you want my cock?" The Finnish man asked pulling his boxers down to show you how his cock hit his torso making you feel all that more warm as you nodded "I gotta fuck you baby." Mikko groaned as he pumped his cock in his hands a mere three or four times before he drove it's head over your clit.

He watched your jaw go slack as he thrusts his cock into your cunt upon deciding that you were wet enough to take it "still such a needy little girl huh?" Mikko wrapped hands around your waist bringing you closer to him as your legs locked around his hips.

Your face contorted as your eyes screwed shut "wanted your cock all day." It was true after a video came up in your snapchat highlights of Mikko taking you from behind after the Stanley Cup win where you had his winners cap on.

The boy found himself smiling as he pecked your lips "but instead you've been wrapping those fucking presents." He scoffed making your cunt clench around his cock as the walls of your core hugged him "for your family." You shot back shutting yourself off as his cock grazed your g-spot.

There was a mischievous look in his face as he watched your breasts bounce with each thrust that he made grazing your hips with his pelvic bone "you want to be a good girl and get to come or not?" He shot back making you moan "already let you go twice tonight." The hockey player added reminding you of the desperate acts that you had done throughout the night.

You went quiet unintentionally then encouraging Mikko as he dropped his head down to your breast "Mi-" your moan was shortlived as his tongue swirled around your nipple. It made you jump as you whimpered.

His teeth caught your skin making you tug at his curls trying to pull him off of you "relax princess." Mikko grumbled shaking his head as he moved his focus to your other breast not wanting that nipple to get jealous of the first "I can't." You shook your head wanting to give up as the sensitivity from your previous two orgasms brought you to where you were now.

The room felt hot as if the heating was no longer needed, whilst your bodies were burning up against each other "Mik, I'm not gonna last." You shook your head slotting your fingers between your bodies "know you can do it for me." Mikko had never pushed you that far in one night, not even as you celebrated the Stanley Cup win. Part of him didn't know what was going to happen but that seemed to only egg Mikko on more as he slapped your hand away replacing it with his as he used two fingers to swirl around your clit.

Your eyes struggled to stay open as your lips quivered struggling to form a coherent word that was stronger than a sound "c-can't Mikko." You cried out feeling your head begin to grow light as you would have fallen flat on the table.

Mikko smirked as his cock pulsated "gonna make you come sweets." He mumbled hovering his lips over yours as tears formed in your eyes "jesus christ mik." You moaned feeling you body go numb as all of you feeling was directed straight into your cunt as it fluttered around his cock "let it all go f'me princess." With those words came the green light you so desperately needed nodding your head as your mouth formed an o shape.

The feeling that came from your cunt wasn't something that you had ever experienced "shit, shit, shit!" You chanted feeling your eyes roll back into their sockets as your orgasm brought on Mikko's "right there my girl." He grunted beginning to fuck you through it.

Instead, you tried to pull away shaking your head "enough please." You begged as your throat began to feel raw "fuck that was hot." Mikko spoke to himself as he looked at his lower torso to see it glistening from where you had squirted.

He had too admit that he was proud of himself for getting you to that point but as he could see the look of shock on your face Mikko instead went into a comforting mode "you did so good tonight y/n." Mikko spoke seriously as he kissed your head desperate to make you feel the same way he did.

All you found yourself doing was nodding as you tried to get up before you realized that your legs were far too shaky for that to happen "why don't we go have a bath?" Mikko offered quickly picking you up as he brought your head to his chest. A subtle yawn left your lips as you blinked giving him the go-ahead too take you up to let the warm water comfort your skin.

Colorado was quiet as the sunrise was still a few hours away Mikko was sure that you two were apart of the mere few still awake at this time. But as snow fell on the earth outside Mikko had to admit that the time he spent with you tonight was better than any kind sleep he had ever had.

[antoniosvivaldi]

Assorted Christmas playlists vol. 2 - Here is a set of four new Christmas playlists for different emotions and atmosphere of the festive season. Comes with a Christmas themed Tag Yourself meme, just like the previous instalment from 2019! (Tag yourself collab with @violets)

Companion uquiz | Assorted Christmas playlists vol. 1

Gingerbread House - Christmas crackers, practical jokes, enjoys watching anime, has an eclectic taste in music, loves to brainstorm, arts & crafts, messy handwritings, mismatched socks, comic strips, colourful flashing lights

A selection of funky songs to dance to for Christmas

{Listen on Spotify}

Silent Night - Counting blessings, candlelights, quill & ink, vintage posters, staying awake at the middle of the night, feels everything deeply, coffeeshop jazz, solving puzzle games, slow and steady to the finish line, mindfulness, ancient library

A selection of introspective songs for the winter nights

{Listen on Spotify}

Cozy Fireplace - Quality time, lovestruck, cardigans, the smell of winter berries, heartfelt letters from loved ones, romance novels, a bowl of hot soup, the smell of fresh oranges, rewatching classic films, stuffing Christmas stockings

A selection of heartwarming songs to enjoy together

{Listen on Spotify}

Christmas at the Beach - Carefree, goes with the flow, life of the party, listens to punk rock at full volume, shirts with tropical prints, street smart, dancing like nobody's watching, fruity punch, loves to be surprised, loves to surf

A selection of pop / punk songs for the summer lovers

{Listen on Spotify}

[sunnydaleherald]

The Sunnydale Herald Newsletter, Friday, September 13th

XANDER: No, it's just... this Malcolm guy? What's his deal? I mean, tell me you're not slightly wigged. BUFFY: Okay, slightly. I mean, just not knowing what he's really like. XANDER: Or who he really is. I mean, sure he says he's a high school student, but I can say I'm a high school student. BUFFY: You are. XANDER: Okay, but I can also say that I'm an elderly Dutch woman. Get me? I mean, who's to say I'm not if I'm in the elderly Dutch chat room?

~~I, Robot... You, Jane~~

[Drabbles & Short Fiction]

cherry lipgloss by sapphistically (Buffy/reader, not rated)

Oblation by The_Crazy_Knight (Buffy/Giles, E)

[Chaptered Fiction]

Jojo's Bizarre Adventure: Shadowed Suspicion, Chapter 341 by madimpossibledreamer (Ensemble, Jojo's Bizarre Adventure crossover, T)

Don't Swerve, Chapter 9 by thisyearsgrrl (Buffy/Faith, E)

My (love) Kill, Chapter 3 by witchywriter3 (Buffy/Spike, G)

Book Stew! Chapter 5 by MGAllan (Michael (from Gingerbread)/Lance (from The Pack), G)

After Life, Chapter 5 by Alwaysandforevermylove (Buffy/Faith, E)

A-Z of Sex, Chapter 1 by KatyAmberAuthor (Buffy/Giles, E)

Soul Mate Magic, Chapter Three by emma-m-black (Giles/OC, 18+)

Out of this World, love..., Chapters 7-8 by Miss Kitty (PG-13, in French)

The Neighbor's Point of View, Chapter 130 by the_big_bad (Buffy/Spike, PG)

Little Light, Chapter 7 by Melme1325 (Buffy/Spike, NC-17)

Way Beyond Chaos, Chapter 1 by Girlytek (Buffy/Spike, R)

Wallflower, Chapter 24 (complete!) by Girlytek (Buffy/Spike, R)

[Images, Audio & Video]

Manip: MerMade For You by Claire (Buffy/Spike, PG-13)

Lego: my custom Lego Buffy the Vampire Slayer by buzzlymuzz

Artwork: Collage #160 by thedecadentraven (Buffy/Spike, worksafe)

Collage: Spike by thedecadentraven (worksafe)

Gifset: Buffy/Cordelia by lovebvffys (worksafe)

Fanvid: Andrew Wells | Puppet Boy [slight flash warning] by homoeroticvillain

Fanvid: Spike/Buffy - The Albatross by DarkEleni

Fanvid: Andrew Wells | Puppet Boy [slight flash warning] by homoeroticvillain

Fanvid: Don't Stop Me Now [BTVS Season 6 BLOOPER REEL] by Aurora Edits

Fanvid: Buffyverse by juliaroxs241

Fanvid: willow and tara | i know the end by editsbysarahx

Fanvid: Buffy the Vampire Slayer Season 2 Opening Credits (Charmed Style) by Rotten Lemonade

Fanvid: Buffy and Spike - Are You That Somebody By Aaliyah by Naki-a Littlejohn

Fanvid: Buffy and Spike - Bang Bang By Ariana Grande by Naki-a Littlejohn

Vidlet: hello kitty | buffy summers | mep part by DreamingWithDragons

Vidlet: Buffy summers || legends never die || by CaptainSwann

Vidlet (untitled) by cupcakexmeow (Buffy/Spike, Buffy/Angel)

Music: BUFFY THE VAMPIRE SLAYER THEME SONG / ‪by JETT Fighter Drumming‬ (age 12 )

Acting: Anya's Monologue by Skyler Brown

Song: Something to Sing About - Singing - by Sparkly Rainbow Kaz

Song: Rest In Peace - Spike - Once More, With Feeling - Buffy - Singing by Sparkly Rainbow Kaz

[Reviews & Recaps]

Video: Top Grumps - Buffy The Vampire Slayer by Nerdy Up North

Video: Buffy the Vampire Slayer Season 4: Episode 7 - The Initiative by The Cheshire Kiwi

Video: Our Love of Buffy The Vampire Slayer PART 1 by It Crept From The 80s

Video: Buffy 2.15 Phases by Jen Katz and Ryan Something

Video: Buffy Vs Charmed | An Observation of Unnecessary Comparison by They Call Me MR. G

Video: Buffy S02E22 "Becoming (Part 2)" Spoiler Review by LGRN - Entertainment

Video: Sleeper-Slayer Sunday by Jane Talks Buffy

Podcast: Showtime S7 E11 Buffy and the Art of Story by Lisa M. Lilly

Podcast: BwB 609 - Point Insertion [Smashed] by Beer With Buffy

Podcast: Tales of Music and Film Season 8 Episode 8 Buffy The Vampire Slayer Take Two by Tales of Music and Film Hosted By Christian Taylor

Podcast: Tales of Music and Film Season 8 Episode 9 Angel by Tales of Music and Film Hosted By Christian Taylor

Podcast: The Quintessential Buffy The Vampire Slayer by Sure Look Sure Listen Podcast

[Search & Recs]

Fic search: Actor spike fic lost by YummyCookies333

Vid rec: Anya Jenkins | Why? [Character Study.] by HostilePoet17 recced by IceStorm22

Fic rec: The Devil's Elegy (Buffy/Angel, M) by coalitiongirl recced by I Will Remember You Marathon

Fic recs: favourite Spuffy recs by userttpd

Vid rec: Charles Gunn - The Loss and Recuperation of the Self by Honeycutt Videos recced by umbralsong

[Community Announcements]

Buffybot and Gilesbot, sitting in a tree… by Buffyverse Kinkmeme

[Fandom Discussions]

Buffy saying “I just wish my mom was here” really falls flat by canary-prince

Rewatch thoughts and questions [Shells, Underneath] continued by multiple posters

Two comics artists who've worked with Joss have died this week by Skippcomet

What happened to the parents in Buffy? continued by multiple posters

Podcast : "Alyson Hannigan Reveals Her #1 Hidden Theory About Me" by Klaus Kartoffel

Spikes justification for not reuniting with Buffy from the episode Harms Way by wtffu006

If I were her relatives, I’d request a refund from the funeral home by Jade_Pratt953

Anyone else believe that the police/coroner/hospitals knew about the undead Americans? by CountChocoula

What is your favourite single scene in the Buffyverse… by tommywest_123

Which ep would you choose [to watch for 24 hours straight]? by No-Jaguar8044

On S2 - watching for the first time and loving it! Will it continue with this quality? by RedRxbin

So I watched a theatre show called Buffy Revamped by CaptainZir0

Your Own Buffy The Vampire Slayer Episode Concept? by Big-Restaurant-2766

[Articles, Interviews, and Other News]

Video: Buffy The Vampire Slayer | Full Q&A | For The Love Of Fantasy (London) 2024 by Monopoly Events

Video: Anthony Stewart Head interview, Buffy the Vampire Slayer - Regis and Kathy Lee (with Tom Arnold) by Cleverkio

Video: Episode 364: Interview With Julie Benz by Don't Go Out There Podcast

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[jaylienpotter]

I'll be offline for the next few days. Spending the weekend out to celebrate New Years! 🎉

So here's the Marauders holidays headcanons requested by Anon on my tree! Before it's January lol.

James

He LOOOOVES the holidays. So much. Christmas is probably his favourite day of the year. Along with his birthday. Family - and friends, since the Potters kidnap take in all the unfortunate kids - gathering together? Celebrating together? Giving gifts? James is in heaven.

He wouldn't shut up when he found out about Santa's reindeer, either, calling himself Rudolph's distant cousin.

Although he likes receiving gifts, he lives for giving them. And he's amazing at choosing too, you'll always get something big yet meaningful. He'd propose to play secret santa every year but he prefers giving all his friends something instead.

His favourite season is summer and he hates cold, but snow? Snow is an exception. It doesn't matter how old he is, if he sees snow, he will point to it and jump excitedly before running outside (and probably catch a cold).

Sirius

He used to dislike Christmas, or at least not care for it. It was nothing but a facade of pureblood gatherings and fake smiles, behaving like the heir of a family he hated. And there was nearly always some family drama (that part Sirius enjoyed). Him and Reg used to place bets on who would be the first family member to start a fight. It was often Sirius.

When he moved to the Potters, Christmas became a family holiday. A family that wasn't his blood but loved him much more. A family that chose to have him be a part of theirs, even if he wasn't perfect. Even if he was unstable. He didn't dread the holidays anymore.

He isn't as excited as James, but it's close. He loves cooking cookies with Effie, he wasn't allowed to cook in the Black Mannor, as it was seen as a low class activity. Secretly, his favourite part now is receiving gifts. See how others thought of him. Loved him. Especially his new family.

Remus

He enjoys the quiet holidays, not a fan of the parties and loudness. Malls are avoided. People are avoided. He'd much rather sit in an armchair by the fire, curled up with a book. Sip tea. Drink hot chocolate. Listen to the rain. It's calm, peaceful. He never had big Christmas celebrations, it's always been just him and his parents - helping his mom in the kitchen, getting a few humble gifts and watching a movie together if they were lucky. It was perfect.

And of course, the amount of chocolates! When people don't know what give you for Christmas, what to they usually go for? Chocolate. And there's so many different available types during this time! Yep, Lupin enjoyed this festive season.

Except the fact that everything became Christmas-themed. All the songs that play anywhere. Any type of decoration. Fake plastic trees everywhere. But oh well.

Once he hit Sirius in the head with a book because he called his - NORMAL, non-christmas sweater - an "ugly sweater".

Peter

He really likes Christmas, not obsessively like Prongs buuuut he's one of those people that start decorating their house on the November 1st, right after Halloween. His home always has a big tree, fully decorated. Every room smells of baked goods. He decorates gingerbread houses, bakes traditional cakes, makes sugar cookies... It's fun, it's calming, it's delicious!

Poor Pete always gets sick around this time of the year, sensitive to the change of temperature. He will complain about it. Sometimes he's not even sick, but he enjoys being babied and taken care of.

If there's snow, he'll for sure make snow angels and try to make a snowman with his friends, enchanting it afterwards to give it life for a few hours or days until it inevitably melts. And if his friends start a snowball fight... he hides behind a wall of snow or a tree and shoots blindly. He never won the game.

[sunflowerromcom]

The Summer We Met

A Ted and Rebecca AU

Rebecca Welton had never enjoyed the idea of cooking until she had children. The thought of shopping, prepping, and putting together an abundance of ingredients to make something just for her was entirely off-putting, and even more so when she was married. Her ex-husband had criticized her enough over what she wore and ate enough as it was. The last thing she wanted to do was give him ample opportunity to criticize her domestic skills or lack thereof.

But then they’d divorced and a little over a year later, her doctor called her to confirm that all the planning and injections she’d endured over the last couple of months had all been worth it.

She was going to be a mother.

From that moment onward, her perspective on many things changed.

Culinary skills being one of them.

It wasn’t enough to have meals planned and stowed away like she had done for herself over the years because, as she would come to realize, a child’s palette was a finicky thing. Having the ability to whip up something while being conscientious about nutrition in it had become a necessity once her eldest grew into a toddler and even more so with the arrival of her twin girls a few years later.

She didn’t want to be one of those mums who ordered everything or one who relied on their nanny to take care of their children's needs for her. She wasn’t so posh she couldn’t learn to make her mother’s shepherd’s pie or quick, simple things like eggs, and bake jammy doggers for Christmas.

Of course, in the beginning, her cooking had been less than to be desired. Thankfully, she had more than ample opportunity to practice throughout her pregnancy, as her mother practically lived with her during her last trimester. Even as exhausting as her mother could be, Rebecca had no idea what she would have done without her help.

As she expected, the moment her doctor placed her beautiful daughter in her arms, she knew she wanted to be the sole person who provided for her.

And Rebecca had been for the last seven years.

“America,” her mother exclaimed, dropping her glasses along with the papers Rebecca had given to her back to the table. The bewildered look on her face made her bite the inside of her cheek. “Why on earth would you want to drag my grandchildren to that god-awful country?”

Rebecca opened her mouth to respond, but the scampering of little feet on the marble floor had her abruptly closing it.

“Mummy,” Madeline said, her soft voice carrying only so far that Rebecca kneeled to hear her better. Her daughter’s warm brown eyes gazed sweetly up at her. “Can we…” she trailed off, a little breathless from running. Rebecca brushed a lock of her gingerbread-colored hair behind her ear, admiring the way the English summer sun filtered in from the windows and cast honey tones throughout it while she waited for her to continue, “can we watch Bluey?”

“Where’s your sister?” she asked, because normally where there was one twin, there was usually the other.

“In the living room,” she said, pointing a little finger beyond the kitchen.

“Yes, you may, darling, but breakfast will be ready soon, so just for a little while.”

“Thank you,” she breathed oh so sweet and soft before she smiled and lifted on her toes, reaching her hands up and pursing her lips to give Rebecca a kiss.

She laughed lightly and placed a light kiss on her daughter’s lips. Rebecca’s heart constricted, watching her youngest hurry off, still in her pale purple pajamas, her ponytail swishing behind her, her butter yellow blanket with little rainbows tucked tightly against her side as she called out, “Mummy said okay, Poppy!”

“Sausage, who is this man?”

This man.

Rebecca’s heartbeat began to thunder, and she did her best to ignore it as she straightened and met her mother’s eyes. In the background, she could hear the distant Bluey theme song playing and see Juliette still painting outside. Knowing they wouldn’t be overheard, she answered with an honest, “The girls’ father.”

Her mother stared at her for a beat. “You told me the donor identity was sealed.”

Rebecca reached for her cup of tea on the counter next to where she had fruit set out to make them all fruit bowls to go with the quiche her mother had made. “Yes, well... there’s not much money can’t buy.”

Her mother sat back, her eyes intent on hers. “Let me get this straight. You plan on taking yourself and the girls to middle America so you can… what? Get a glimpse of the man who assisted in their creation?”

“That’s the gist of it, yes.”

There were other reasons, and her mother knew about them all. That she wasn’t bringing them up, told her a lot. Told Rebecca that she understood why.

“Alright.”

Rebecca blinked at her. Even if her mother understood, Rebecca had frankly expected she’d have to put up more of a defense. She’d even practiced what she would say when the time came more than the lines she had for a role in Twelfth Night in her second year. “That’s all you have to say?”

“What? You’re a grown woman. I trust you’ll take all the sensible precautions to keep my darling girls safe.”

“Of course I will. I have a house and a car. We’ll be fine.” She took the bunch of raspberries on the counter over to the sink to wash them. She watched her mother pick up the printout of the house she rented. Her eyes scanned the description. The modernized farmhouse home came fully furnished with cottage décor and high-end amenities, with two stories and a finished attic that had been renovated into one big open area that had been turned into a playroom.

It had three bedrooms, one king-size bed in one room, another a full-sized bed, and two double beds in the other. Stunning open arches separate the kitchen, living room, and dining room with hardwood floors throughout. The kitchen was spacious and lovely, with exposed brick and turquoise cabinetry and large garden windows. The living room had oversized cozy-looking couches with quilts thrown over the backs and a Smart TV. They’d have Wi-Fi so Rebecca could keep up with work, air-conditioning for those hot Kansas nights, a washer and dryer, and a dishwasher. Everything they could possibly need. “I was hoping you might come along. Not the entire summer, but a week or two?”

“Of course you were. Who else will help you with the girls?”

Rebecca rolled her eyes as she shook her head.

More pattering of little feet came then. Rebecca looked around just in time for Poppy to come running around the counter.

“Mummy, Mummy, Mummy,” Poppy cried, while running towards her, her arms outstretched for Rebecca. Rebecca leaned down just in time to scoop her up into her arms. “Can we swim today?”

“Swim?” She laughed. Poppy’s smile grew as she nodded, and Rebecca pressed a kiss to her sun-kissed baby girl’s cheek.

They’d spent nearly every summer day that it had not rained in the above-ground pool since she had it built two years ago. They built the stone base in the corner of the backyard. Large stepping stones were placed from the deck to its steps and were illuminated at night by garden lights. It’d been a hit in the summers with the girls, including Phoebe and Nora, and while the deepest part only came up to Rebecca’s hip, it was refreshing even for the adults.

This year had been no different.

Two weeks into the season, she and the girls already had a nice summer glow to them.

Rebecca sat Poppy down on the counter, gently tugging the bands that barely held her blonde hair that had come loose from the pigtail braids Rebecca had done up after her bath the night before. Rebecca leaned forward and kissed the tip of her daughter’s nose, making her giggle.

“When it warms up a bit more, we can.” She reached up and brushed her fingers through Poppy’s bangs before running them carefully through her hair.

The sound of another set of bare feet filled the room, then suddenly the sensation of her shirt being tugged. “I want up, too, Mummy.”

Rebecca smiled in amusement and lifted Maddie up to sit beside her twin, then went back to fixing Poppy’s hair.

“Can I have a berry?”

“You may,” Rebecca nodded at Maddie, who gave one to Poppy before taking one for herself.

Rebecca smiled, feeling for her girls filling her heart with her love for them both at how sweet her girls were with one another. Though they had always been that way. Since the day they’d been born, they preferred to be together. Cried when they were separated for a prolonged period of time. Cuddled each other when they needed a bit of comfort, the only exceptions being Juliette and Rebecca. Not until this last year had they begun to do things on their own or sleep in separate beds, and even then, Rebecca would wake some mornings and find one of them had snuck in with their sister during the night.

As fraternal twins, they were not identical. Where Madeline had dark hair and eyes, Poppy had light blonde hair and light hazel eyes spattered with specks of Rebecca’s green. They were, however, the same height. Both held firmly in the sixty-five percentiles, whereas Juliette had been in the ninetieth for their age.

It was almost certain Juliette would be as tall as Rebecca, but she thought the twins might be just a little over average.

Their personalities and temperaments greatly differed. Maddie was her lover, and Poppy was her fighter. But together, they were one another’s comfort and support, and Rebecca hoped beyond all hope that the love they held for one another continued into their teens.

When Rebecca finished with Poppy’s hair, she wrapped an arm around each, squeezing them together, kissing them noisily on their cheeks, drawing giggles from them.

When they were both breathless with laughter, Rebecca drew back, smiling down at them both. “Alright, let’s go tell your sister it’s time for breakfast.”

She set them both down on the floor and followed as they giggled their way to the back door. And for the rest of the day, conversations of fathers and trips to America were put on hold for the time being.

***

Two weeks passed entirely too quickly for Rebecca. Before she knew it, their holiday in Kansas was upon them. It had been a mad dash over the last week, what with meeting after meeting at the club, making sure Leslie had everything he needed to run it without her, and get them all ready.

Rebecca had booked an overnight flight, hoping the girls would sleep through the duration of the trip. She was certain Juliette and Poppy would sleep easily enough, however; Madeline, being her lightest sleeper, might need a bit of coaxing back to sleep throughout the night. Thankfully, she was little enough that she would fit in the pod with Rebecca if it came to that.

Her best friend sat in the middle of her bed, one of Rebecca’s pillows in her lap, her eyes watching Rebecca cross and recross her room while she packed.

“You’ve got Poppy’s bunny?”

Rebecca paused and pointed to a peach-colored, child-sized tote bag at the end of the bed. “Packed in her carry-on.”

Inside each bag, she had each of the girls pack one toy and a book they wished to take on the plane. Poppy had her plush bunny with soft white and brown fur and impossibly enormous feet, and because Poppy brought her stuffy, Madeline packed her own favorite plush, a pig they affectionately called Hammy. Juliette chose the Walkman Keeley had given her at her last birthday party, which was apparently back in style and all the rage, along with a stack of Taylor Swift CDs.

“What about Juliette’s backup glasses?”

Rebecca smirked. Her friend thinking just as she had when she first started packing. Essentials first. Her daughter was notorious for taking off her glasses and losing them, only to be found hours later. “In their case, which is in my purse.”

She picked up her tea from where it sat on her dresser and took a sip. She glanced down at her watch just to be sure it wasn’t getting too late, but they still had eight hours before their flight. Plenty of time.

“I can’t believe you’re taking my sweetlings away from me all summer.” Keeley stuck out her bottom lip, feigning a pout.

Rebecca’s own lips turned down. Keeley wasn’t the only one upset by her plan. They’d spent every summer together for the last six years after she and Keeley became fast friends at her own charity gala when Rebecca broke down in the loo. She’d just had Juliette three months before. She’d felt extremely self-conscious wearing a dress after having just had a child and spending every day in leggings and tee shirts, not to mention guilty for leaving her baby girl alone with her mother when all she wanted to do was be at home cuddling her. Keeley had walked in, saw the tears welling in her eyes, asked what was wrong, and after Rebecca tearfully explained how she missed her daughter and hated her exhusband who just had to show up uninvited, had given her a tight hug that Rebecca was very unused to, called her ex-husband a bunch of names that made Rebecca laugh through her tears, then promised her she’d looked fit as fuck.

She and Keeley left the gala together that night after Keeley appropriated a bottle of champagne for herself, and then it was back to Rebecca’s, where she introduced the young woman to Juliette.

They’d become their own tight-knit little family of sorts. Roy came into the picture a little later with his niece, Phoebe, who was only a few months older than Juliette. Then the twins a few years later.

“You’ll have Phoebe and Roy,” she said, smiling at the snort it brought out from her friend.

“I know, but it won’t be the same. It won’t be as bonkers without them all running around singing Let It Go and that fucking Bruno song at the top of their little lungs. They’ve even got Roy singing it in the shower now.” Rebecca let out a light laugh at that, knowing how easily both songs could get stuck in her own head. After a pause, Keeley looked up at her, her face set into a rare serious expression that had Rebecca raising an eyebrow. “You don’t have to do this, you know? So what if you never knew him? The girls will get it. You just need to talk to them.”

“I know they would,” Rebecca said, closing her eyes, her head falling back in a bit of exasperation. This wasn’t the first time they’d had this conversation. They’d had it many times since the day The Sun had come out with a reprehensible headline that Juliette’s schoolmate had shown her at school. Her daughter had been so devastated that the nurse had called Rebecca to come to get her. She’d taken one look at the paper the nurse handed her in explanation and felt her heart sink lower than she’d ever thought it capable. They’d come home, had a cry, and snuggled together and eventually, Juliette told her how it all happened. “I would just rather take them away for the summer if these are the stories they’re going to continue to put out. I don’t even know why they started watching me again.”

“Probably because your shithead ex just had another child.”

Rebecca made a face. The man was going to be six feet under before his children would graduate. “Whatever it is, I’m going to do everything I can to spare the girls from it, and if it means leaving the country, so be it.”

“And that’s completely fair,” Keeley began, nodding, “but taking them to meet a man that may want nothing to do with them?”

Rebecca sighed, knowing there was a real chance of that very well being the case. However, Keeley had it all wrong, thinking she’d ever march her girls up to the man without having a conversation with him herself.

She moved away from her suitcase and let herself fall on the bed beside her friend.

Before she could explain, Keeley had her arm wrapped around her shoulders. “Babes, I’m worried about you. I don’t think this is the best idea.”

“That’s just it, though. I have a plan, and it’s nothing like you’re thinking.”

“Then tell me what the plan is? And maybe why you looked him up in the first place? This isn’t because of what that little shit said to Jules, is it?”

That little shit had been the same little git that had given Juliette the paper and had started referring to her as sperm baby.

Rebecca had thought there would be no greater pain than when she had walked in to find her husband cheating on her. Because it hadn’t just been the betrayal, but the lies, the deceit, the coldness afterward. It exposed her to re-live that pain every day following, as more and more of his lies and affairs came out on the front page of the papers.

However, years later, holding her young daughter to her chest after she had cried herself to sleep over an article that should have been no one’s business but her own, Rebecca faced a new depth of pain. It was a mother’s pain that felt unlike anything she’d ever experienced before. The one job she’d been adamant about never failing—protecting and loving her children with all that she had—she was doing a shit job of it. It was because of her that her child was hurting, and it was a pain and guilt she felt deep in her very being.

She had kissed the crown of her daughter’s blonde head, and from that moment forward, promised that she’d make amends for it all.

While the little shit had been the catalyst, Rebecca did it for her girls.

Rebecca shook her head, willing the tears to keep from falling as the emotions from that day had risen in her. “No, not because of what he said.”

Keeley tilted her head at her, her look knowing, calling her out on her bullshit. Rebecca should have known she wouldn’t have been able to keep that from her.

“At first, I suppose the incident at her school had been what initially led me to find him.” She blew out a breath and felt Keeley’s arm tighten around her. “At first, I just wanted to see who he was. I wanted to be able to tell Juliette something about him. And I admit there was a bit of curiosity about him I had myself. To see where Juliette got those big brown eyes, and where Poppy got those adorable dimples, where Madeline got…” Rebecca trailed off, thinking of her youngest and how her soft brown hair, her dark eyes, and bright smile were the spitting image of the man in the photographs she received, “all that she is.”

Keeley laughed. They’d always joked that the father, whoever he was, had to be good-looking because Madeline had a beautiful uniqueness to her she could only have gotten from her other parent. “If any of them take after their dad, it’s her.”

“I’m not going to take them with me to meet him if that’s what you’re thinking. They’re going to stay at the house with my mother. I’ve had Leslie set up a meeting with him. I’m going to sit down and introduce myself, work up the nerve to tell him about them, and then—”

“Hope like fuck he doesn’t sue you for all your millions.”

Her shoulders slumped. For someone who was normally a floating ray of positive fucking sunshine, her friend could very pessimistic. Besides, from what Rebecca had gathered about him, he didn’t seem to be the litigious type. “I don’t think he’s that kind of man.”

“How do you know?”

“I…” She raised a finger and held it up, considering how deep she was already in this plan of hers. She dropped her hand with a sigh. In for a penny, in for a pound. “I might have hired a private investigator to look into him.”

Keeley’s eyes widened. “You didn’t!”

“I’m not daft, Keeley. I’m not going to go bloody meet him, nor let the man near my children without knowing he’s not complete sod or, you know, some kind of serial killer.”

“Oh my God, if you hired a PI, then that means you have a picture! I want to see him!”

Rebecca groaned, then rose to her feet, knowing it’d be no use to keep them from her. She crossed the room to the other side of the bed, where she left her phone beside her suitcase. “Fine, but you have to promise not to laugh.”

“Why would I laugh—Oh,” she paused, holding up a hand to her chest, “is he like a four out of ten something?”

“He’s most certainly not a four.”

Rebecca tapped on the screen until she had her gallery up and the few hidden pictures she’d downloaded on her phone into a hidden folder, making sure the girls wouldn’t be able to see them. She handed it over to her friend and awaited her reaction.

“Ohmygod, Rebecca!” Keeley looked up at her with wide eyes for half a second, then dropped her gaze back down to her phone. “Is this really him?”

Rebecca went over to the door to her room, glad that her mother was outside keeping the girls entertained, and shut it lightly behind her, letting her weight fall back against it. “It is.”

“I’d call him a goddamn eleven with that beard of his.” She must have swiped from the picture of the full beard to the one that was a few years before of him completely clean shaved. His coach’s profile photo was on the Kansas University website. “Aww, I think he has such a kind face. God, Maddie is definitely that man’s child. I see Poppy’s nose for sure and aww, look at that smile… There are Juliette’s dimples.” The next thing Rebecca knew, Keeley was looking up at her with tears in her eyes. “I don’t know why I’m crying,” she said with a laugh, wiping away a few tears that had fallen.

Rebecca went back over to the side of her bed not covered in suitcases and this time put an arm around her friend. Keeley’s head fell on her shoulder. Rebecca’s gaze dropped to the picture. The feelings she felt when she first had a look at them still fluttered in her belly and squeezed at her heart. She hadn’t known what to expect, but the relief that came from seeing a kind-looking face staring back at her filled her with hope for not only her but for her girls.

She was a firm believer that you could tell a lot about a person by the way they looked, and the way they presented themselves to the world, and Ted Lasso radiated optimism and happiness. He didn’t look like a man who would turn them away if he met them tomorrow or ten years from now. And that feeling she had about him only solidified when she read through his coach’s file and watched his silly videos on YouTube.

Again, her friend was right in sync with her train of thought, asking, “What’s so funny about him, though?”

Rebecca took her phone, pulled up another app, and typed in his name. She tapped on the first and most popular video, handed the phone back to her friend, and waited.

But the laughter never came, only a pull of her lips up into a wide grin. “Aww, he’s sweet. His accent sounds a lot like that guy from Sweet Home Alabama.” Her friend’s brows drew together then. “If you have all this, why do you still want to meet him? I mean, the man looks like he’d be a complete cinnamon roll… though, I guess you don’t want to go introducing them before you prepare the man.”

Rebecca tapped her nose. “That and a few interviews and a silly dancing video in a locker room with his team doesn’t tell me much beyond the fact that he cares about his job.”

“No, but it tells you he’s not bad to look at with that beard of his.” Keeley bumped her shoulder against hers.

She took the phone back from her and gazed down at the man in the photo, swearing to herself her heart wasn’t thumping any harder in her chest just from looking at him. “He is rather handsome.”

“Don’t go falling for him while you’re over there,” Keeley said, slapping her playfully on the thigh. “One proper pounding from the father of your babies and I’ll never see you again.”

Rebecca made a face. “He’s recently divorced. If he’s anything like I was after mine, I highly doubt he’s looking for anything even remotely close to a relationship. Not that I would be interested.”

“Uh-huh.”

“I’m not.”

“I’m just saying he’s the father of your children. Your three adorable girls. You’re telling me there’s absolutely nothing attractive about how beautiful your babies are when your stuff gets mixed with his?”

Her cheeks filled with heat. She rose from the bed to continue with her packing. “Good God, Keeley, not when you say it like that.”

“Think about it, babes, you’ve had his—”

She closed her eyes, her hands flying up to her temples as shook her head. “Yes, yes, yes, I know what I’ve had. Can we please talk about anything else?”

Keeley laughed. “Did you pack your vibrator? I have a feeling you might need it.”

Rebecca reached over, grabbed a throw pillow, and lobbed it at her.

[redheadspark]

Halloween Prompt Session

Hello Lovelies!

It is officially Autumn AND October (Although in some places, it's still summer temperature wise). I'm beyond excited for Autumn since it's my favorite season! With Halloween right around the corner, I figured we would jump right into a Prompt Sesison to celebrate!

This Prompt's Theme is:

Halloween

Here are my rules:

1.) You may choose ONE character from my list Here. It’ll have the list of characters that I write for or have written for in the past.

*(If you have a character not listed that you wish for me to write, PLEASE MESSAGE ME AND CLEAR IT WITH ME FIRST TO SEE IF I CAN OR WILL DO IT!)*

2.) There are Two Prompt lists for this session, and since the list is rather large, please provide BOTH the numbers you would like (You can pick one from each list) AND the character to pair it with.

PLEASE LABEL THE RIGHT NUMBER TO THE RIGHT LIST WHEN REQUESTING!!

Example: May I have Aziel from ACOTAR with #5 dialogue and #16 action?

*I write out the requests as a first come first serve. I will try my best to fulfill every request that comes my way, but please bear in mind I work full-time as a teacher. Because of that, I’ll be busy most of the day so please be patient and I’ll write in my spare time as much as I can :) *

3.) If I get two requests that are exactly the same, (same character and same number) I will only write it once! Please don't be afraid to ask if someone has already requested the character and number, I don't mind answering that for you :)

4.) You can request in my ASK box neither as yourself or anonymously. Although I would LOVE to give you a shout if you request as yourself, anon is perfectly fine!

5.) I will stop taking requests for this prompt session on Sunday, October 15th, at 3:00pm PST (Pacific Standard Time)

6) Have fun and enjoy :)

This Prompt List was created by @scealaiscoite

-ˏˋ. dialogue ˊˎ-

"what do you mean you've never gone trick-or-treating?!"

"I really appreciate that you're getting into the Halloween spirit, but it's ten in the morning. please turn off the slasher films so I can eat my breakfast in peace."

"ah, you've made the mistake in thinking that just because this is a couples/family costume that you get any kind of say in it. you don't, actually."

"I love you, I swear I do, but we're not wearing matching costumes."

"you're like the toughest person I know! am I really supposed to believe that a horror film is enough to have you cowering into my lap?"

"stop squirming, you're gonna mess up your face paint!"

"not to rain on your parade or anything, but since when are gingerbread haunted houses a thing?

"Please, I'm begging you. don't make me watch the nightmare before Christmas again."

"Should I be worried that you know how to replicate fake blood this well? i probably should be, right?"

"come on, if there was ever a time for me to be superstitious it's definitely now."

-ˏˋ. actions / scenarios ˊˎ-

carving pumpkins together

. having a scary movie marathon

going to questionable lengths to decorate their house/apartment

passing out candy to trick-or-treaters

throwing a Halloween party

going to a carnival/fair

comforting the scaredy cat amongst them

putting an inordinate amount of effort into planning their costume

going to a pumpkin patch

laying wide awake at night after watching a horror movie that left them unnerved

Remember, I will not take requests after 3:00 pm PST on Sunday, October 15th,

Thanks and happy Requesting!

Tagging - @a-lumos-in-the-nox @botanicalbarnes @heliosphere8 @virtueassassin @ethereal-athalia @heartofwritiing @valeridarkness @pemberlyy @saradika

[bandaged-pup]

🎄Christmas Activities For Pet Regressors🎄

🎁 Bake Pet treat shaped gingerbread cookies e.g, tiny ones that look like kibble or bone shaped like dog treats!! Remember to be safe :)

🐾 Go on a Christmas light walk (or drive)! Whether it’s by yourself, with someone, or even with a pet or stuffies, it’s always fun to see the pretty lights!!

🎁 Make Christmas-themed felt animal ears! You can find some super simple tutorials on YouTube that only require a hot glue gun, headband + felt and you can add Christmas decor to it! Be safe with hot glue!

🐾 Dance or sing to Christmas music!! (Or simply just relax and listen :D)

🎁 Make a count down calendar with pet toys or your favourite treats to have! You could use those empty wooden ones you can get from places like target and paint it or you can make your very own using a tutorial!

🐾 Watch Christmas movies! Make your room comfortable and cozy (or make a nest/blanket fort), grab your comfort items, get some snacks or make some hot chocolate and dive into your favourite Christmas movies!

🎁 Make a Christmas-themed collar/choker with ribbon! Simply cut some ribbon into your preferred length and *loosely* tie around your neck to form a bow OR follow a DIY pet collar tutorial!

🐾 Play and pounce in the snow or have a snowball fight! Or If you live somewhere where it’s summer/just doesn’t snow during Christmas time, play with instant snow or play pretend :)

[jolapeno]

five drinks to get to know me

thank you so much for the tag, @halfmoth-halfman I adore you! 🤍

1. Pepsi Max — there is more of this in my system than there is blood. do not come for me, it is my vice, my one thing. (I also include Coke Zero in this because *someone* dislikes Pepsi, so.

2. Caramel Iced Latte, soy milk – my go-to order from Starbucks. Lattes are my favourite for caffeine boosts and caramel adds a sweetness to it that I NEED. I also like vanilla, gingerbread and pumpkin ✌🏼I drink iced lattes all year round.

3. Strawberry and banana smoothie — can you see the sweetness theme going off. I love this, the fruit, the thickness, it’s amazing. Also strawberries are my fave fruit.

4. Fresh smooth pineapple juice — when we buy it, this is the drink I have in the morning. It reminds me of holidays when I was younger and warm summer days ☀️

5. Zero sugar Monster energy drinks — I eat like super healthy (so, so) drinks with fruit or caffeinated drinks that’ll get me through the day. My current fave is the Lewis Hamilton one with the blue can, but I also love the white one.

do not worry about my caffeine intake, but I don’t sleep a lot (hence all the words I put out) and need them to survive hahaha

tagging: if you so wish to do this: @guyfieriii @yeyinde @vermillionwinter @eowynstwin @wildemaven

[wulfums]

Allanwulf favorite holidays?

Whatwulf loves the 4th but only because his husband gets a day off and them and their friends go to the beach. He loves going to the beach w everyone sm and he loves grilling for everyone.

They try to do this some weekends during the Summer not on that day but sometimes WW works weekends at his delivery job or everyones schedules dont match up.

I think Allan enjoys Xmas because its quiet and they get several days off where they spend it with just him and WW. On Xmas itself they go to Allans familys house but the other days off are just for them. They love to do cute fun themed things on Xmas Eve esp!! They make some really impressive Gingerbread houses every yr. They splurge on expensive hot choccy. Its quiet and is about their love for each other and they love it.

[wtfuckevenknows]

Okay, Nice Ask Week Ask -

You're invited to a potluck, what are you bringing?

Bonus round - it's a themed potluck and you have to bring a dish that is somehow emblematic of the last book or movie you loved. What are you bringing?

Alright Lim, I’m not sure I would call an existential crisis NICE exactly but here we go 😂

I have thought long and hard about this and as always I’m gonna cheat because I would need more Information for a straight answer. Am I responsible for a certain type of food, is there a general theme, what’s the occasion, what time of year is it?!

First of all if I could I would ALWAYS bring a charcuterie board!!! I have so much fun making them so if I could bring a snack (or two) that would be my offering.

Am I responsible for sides?! I’d bring a Mediterranean salad (with or without orzo) or my families secret recipe pasta salad or I’d bake some fresh bread (maybe olive bread, maybe cheddar bay biscuits).

Am I bringing a main dish?! This is actually the hardest one to decide but maybe I’d bring my chili mac or the taco pasta. If the potluck is around Christmas I’d ALWAYS bring my meatloaf stuffed with apples and chestnuts.

Am I bringing a drink?! Selfmade pink (cranberry) lemonade during summer, apple cider during winter.

Am I bringing desert?! My Mousse au chocolat made out of silken tofu (I was gonna try it out with gingerbread seasoning this winter, but then my body happened so if that’s any good I’d bring that at Christmas time).

Am I bringing sweets? Chocolate orange fudge hands down!!!

Am I bringing cake?! Tres Leches or my no bake straciatella torte.

Onto that second part of your ask 🙃

The last book(s) I really loved were a hockey series and I have a cake tin in the form of a shirt. Soooooo I’d bake a cake and decorate it so it would resemble a hockey jersey obviously. I’ve also baked hockey cookies before.

Not sure I am happy with these answers but I also wanna stop thinking about it 😂

(And now I’m gonna unfreeze the silken tofu and @loveconquersall is just gonna have to suffer through a food coma this weekend)

[muekyn]

Hi Summer!! Just wanted to pop by and wish you a pleasant day (or evening)! 🫶

I was wondering if you n' Eren have any activities planned for the holiday season?? And I hope you two like sweets because I made some shortbread cookies today and I put some aside for the both of you. 🤭

Sending warmth and good wishes. ❤️‍🔥

hi cloudy! :3 i hope your day is going well! and hehe thank u for the cookies <3

also yes! we have a few small things that we do every year!

without fail, we put up at least a few decorations around the house. we always set our tree up as early as possible bc i really like looking at all the decorations and getting all excited lol. this year we decided to do a colorful christmas theme, with rainbow colored lights :3

also we try to make a gingerbread house every year. it’s sometimes successful, if eren isn’t taking bites out of the roof before we set it up lol. usually a gingerbread man is missing his arm or leg by the time we finish the house hehe.

hmm… we also sometimes will go out on night drives and look at all the pretty decorations in the fancy parts of town :3 we both really like the lights lol, they’re just so pretty. but if we’re feeling lazy, we get all cozy at home and watch really bad christmas romance movies. usually both of us just end up screaming at the main character’s decisions in the movie xD

ty for your question and happy holidays!! <33

[writebackatya]

An embarrassing story for the sleepover game

One time I ripped my pants at an Olive Garden in the middle of summer while wearing a pair of Christmas themed gingerbread boxer shorts. It was like right before we got seated too so I was planted in my seat the entire time. Afterwards, my grandma had to get something at the grocery store so I just waited in the car

that was pretty embarrassing

[sunnydaleherald]

The Sunnydale Herald Newsletter, Wednesday, September 4th

Faith's opponent is back up, and she spins around once and does a side kick, getting him in the stomach. The kick forces him back, and he knocks his head hard into a low pipe behind him. [Next] Faith's assailant punches her in the face, but she isn't fazed in the least. She blocks two punches with her forearms and then backhand punches him in the face. FAITH: My dead mother hits harder than that! She throws him onto a couple of sheets of drywall laid across two sawhorses. They break instantly under his weight. She runs up to him, grabs his sweater and punches him in the face. She doesn't stop, and keeps on punching him in the face, whaling on him.

~~Faith, Hope and Trick~~

[Drabbles & Short Fiction]

BtVS Double Drabble: Not Fair! by badly_knitted (Cordelia, Buffy, PG)

Weekly Drabbles #167 — Etiquette by veronyxk84 (Buffy/Spike, Dawn, PG-13)

A Champion is More Than an Amulet by Acb6293 (Buffy/Spike, M)

Dawns says Choose Spike by DanaNick82 (Buffy/Spike, Xander/Dawn, T)

Kissing Strangers by Skyson (Buffy/Giles, M)

Late Night in the Lab by MadeInGold (Fred, Wesley, G)

Notable Findings by fatalfae (Maggie, Willow, E)

A Good Last Meal by TheClowniestLivInExistence (Buffy/Angelus, T)

BTVS/SPN: Reindeer by honeystories (Buffy/Dean, Supernatural xover, not rated)

“Times being what they are - Dark, and getting darker all the time.” by hiddenbysuccubi (Buffy/Spike, not rated)

For the 3 words + character/pairing ask: Blood Past Bronze by explosionshark (Buffy/Faith, not rated)

Fuffy + keepsake + tension + quiet by coraniaid (Buffy/Faith, not rated)

Catch My Fall by Rea (Buffy/Spike, NC-17)

What the Drabble? Vol. 2 - ch. 67 by VeroNyxK84 (Buffy/Spike, PG-13)

[Chaptered Fiction]

After Life - ch. 1 by Alwaysandforevermylove (Buffy/Faith, E)

Book Stew! - ch. 1 by MGAllan (Michael/Lance, [characters Gingerbread and The Pack] G)

A Ripple In Time - ch. 1-23 by CheekyKitten (Buffy/Spike, E)

A Taste of Buffy - ch. 2-3 by Maxine Eden (Buffy/Spike, NC-17)

Into his mind - ch. 2 by rossshin (Buffy/Spike, G)

Slayer's Soulmate - ch. 3 by vampirische liebe (Buffy/Spike, NC-17)

Saving You - ch. 11 by Spikelover4ever (Buffy/Spike, NC-17)

The Watcher - ch. 29 by In Mortal (Buffy/Spike, NC-17)

Let's Casually Change the Timeline - ch. 3 by ClowniestLivEver (Buffy/Spike, PG-13)

The Trickster’s Shadow - ch. 1-2 by LoneFrog (Xander, Marvel Thor xover, FR15)

Wolves in the Sky - ch. 3 by calikocat (Xander, Airwolf xover, FR15)

A Sword in the Man - ch. 1 by Desicat (Buffy/Spike, PG-13)

A Taste of Buffy - ch. 2-3 by Maxine Eden (Buffy/Spike, NC-17)

Quest for Glory - ch. 2 by Geliot99, Claire (Buffy/Spike, R)

Let's Casually Change the Timeline by ClowniestLivEver (Buffy/Spike, PG-13)

The Watcher - ch. 29 by In Mortal (Buffy/Spike, NC-17)

To All We Guard - ch. 23 by simmony (Buffy/Spike, NC-17)

[Images, Audio & Video]

Artwork: little commission piece I did by tubesock86 (Spike, worksafe)

Artwork: OH boi..where do i even start with this one? my bloody teenhood life. by sanzosin (Buffy/Spike, worksafe)

Artwork: I couldn't stop drawing a certain somebody after finishing Buffy by hippano (Spike, worksafe)

Artwork: End of summer Spuffy by isevery0nehereverystoned (Buffy/Spike, worksafe)

Manip / Wallpaper: I'm dating a swimmer... by revello-drive-1630 (Xander, mildly NSFW)

Gifset: Buffy Meme: [2/6 Relationships] Buffy/Spike by lovebvffys (Buffy/Spike, worksafe)

Artwork: I follow you by sanzosin (Buffy/Spike, worksafe)

[Reviews & Recaps]

My take each season’s overarching emotional themes on Buffy the Vampire Slayer by toomanylizzes

I've just finished the first season of buffy the vimpire slayer for the first time. by thecryofmadness

[Buffy/Spike thoughts about S5 and S6 with more in tags] by nicollekidman

Just finished a Buffy rewatch. Thoughts on season 7 - how would you have wanted it to end? by uarmywildflower

Phoenix Rising makeup collab review! by Nervous-Salad6066

PODCAST: Episode 72: Parting Gifts by Gym Was Cancelled: A Buffy Podcast

[Recs & In Search Of]

ISO: the-golden-dragoness [new watcher only on S1] seeks more Buffy mutuals

[Fandom Discussions]

POLL: Vampire Media Guys Redemption Round: Choose one of the Eliminated Characters [Oz] by vampirewrestlinglover

Meme: [Willow] by paperpuzzles

[pro Xander Harris] by paarthursass

season six spuffy is also nuts bc spike is clearly like. please just tell me i’m good... [with more in tags] by nicollekidman

scoobies and dawn [versus Spike in S5] by nicollekidman

i'm so sorry you guys got fooled by the fuzzy sweaters but willow was evil from day 1 by missjessefantastico

I’m not really a RobinFaith shipper [but] Robin really did match her freak... by fictiongods

Personally, if I was gonna do a Buffy Spin-Off, I'd love to see one about younger Giles. by chaoticneutraldisasterqueer

Spike should have been in way more episodes of the early seasons of Angel. by aphony-cree

you guys do know that buffy was being intensely sexually harassed by Spike... by suncaptor

Buffy dolls [Library playset + multiple figures] by SelinaKyleYoureFired

POLL: Episode Ranking: Part 3 [voting begins for S1 underrated ep] by Past-Throat-6788

POLL: Series Episodes Ranking [ATS Best and Worst selected, now vote on the Hidden Gem of S1] by dcgraca

[discussion of Buffy processing events in Seeing Red, including the comics] by mskisskissbang

Favorite Buffy reference in other shows/ books/ music or movies? by 2-TheStarsWhoListen

Faith and Mayor Wilkins' relationship by SirJibbly

Do you consider Cordelia part of the pack? [one of the Scoobies] by Fair-Ad-9396

[discussion of a BTVS tattoo with references to many characters] by RoseWhispers06

We really need a Ripper prequel by Astridafied

Printing the unreleased Angel RPG book Encyclopedia Demonica by irishhawk

Is Xander based on Joss Whedon by anthonycaruana

[discussion of] Buffy's POV in 4x16 by classified12345

[Articles, Interviews, and Other News]

PHOTOS: "Happy Birthday @ClareKramer! I hope you have a magnificent day!" [Spike and Glory photos] via dontkillspike

VIDEO CLIP: James Marsters talking about how filming [the Seeing Red scene from his Rosenbaum interview] via pearly--rose

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Join the editor team :)

[puffins-studio]

Doctor and Master 🐆🐸

I made this this summer when I had time so I have no idea of this moment how the master will be in 13′s last episode but here’s hoping it was good and he will still be my favorite 

Yes past self he was very good

I know I already posted Froggy thirteen but she was a part of a pair for Halloween and I need something to post to start my count down when I posted her

[ID:The picture is of felt dolls that are the shape of a gingerbread man with a big circle heads, they are is supposed to be the The thirteenth Doctor and Dhawan master. 1st picture is them together. the master have light brown felt for skin, black hair with a fringe to his left and he is in a cheetah theme onesie with the hood up, and four black bead for buttons down the front. And purple socks on. On the right is the Thirteenth doctor with her shoulder length, dirty blonde hair and her dangly earring. Here her earring is supposed to be a frog. She is in a frog them onesie with a hood that have frog eyes on top. And she has her navy socks on with a light blue stripe. 2nd picture is a close up her 13. And the 3rd pitiable a close up of him.:ID]